Beacon High School

My son tested out of reading intervention in Kindergarten and although we read all summer long, by his 1st grade year it was determined he needed help again. 3 times a week he met with a male teacher for extra reading help from November to February. This plan proved to be highly effective resulting in reducing the meeting down to twice a week from February to June. My son exceeded the reading level goals of G-H (P&F criteria) by 3rd quarter, successfully reading level I-J at 98% and 35wpm according to the 4th quarter report card. The head teacher ran a class size of 19 and for the most part remained relatively consistent throughout the school year with at-home assignments, snap words and 3 books sent home each night. I mostly appreciated that she graded the students' class work. Class work seemed to be progressive in nature, appropriate and challenging. 1st grade was really fast-paced and required my husband and I to dedicate an hour each morning and approx an hour or more after school with our son to be certain he wouldn't fall behind but overall our family is happy with his experience thus far. One concern I have is the lack of diversity within the teaching staff. I read that currently the school is 84% white female, I'm hoping more poc and male educators are recruited. Job postings alone may not be as effective today as they once were.

The overall moral of this school is awful. Every year so many kids leave because their kids are depressed, discouraged and hate school. Despite an ongoing “positivity project” the students and teachers continue to bully, gaslight and generally just don’t seem to care. The gym teacher can’t even get the kids to enjoy a game of tag they are all just walking around the gym ignoring him while he’s on his phone. There is no meaningful art or music curriculum, they have a wonderful library and yet the kids read books off a white board. It’s sad that is is the elementary school experience for these kids they deserve better.

Wonderful experience here. My daughter has thrived in this school, the teachers from other grades even seem to know her, they go out of their way to challenge her and foster a love of learning, and have kept me updated regularly on both social and academic issues.

Dr. Buon is probably the best administrator in this district. Balmville School is a great school. The school was given special ed classes to save money and the issues come from not having staff to service the kids the district moved in there. Our child went K-5 there. If you know what education is and care about the learning part, this is the school for you. It is not the school for special ed, but this is a special ed problem across the district.

This school has teachers that care and work hard to ensure equal learning for all. The principal has always addressed concerns quickly and resolved problems immediately. The students are constantly reminded of their manners and actions towards others. The schools location allows the children to have more walking tours than other elementary schools. This is a great school for any child.

I love this school! My children are safe, loved, and receives one on one attention if needed. The teachers know my children's strength and weakness academically and promotes confidence within themselves to do better. Manners and respect for themselves and others are re-enervated in school.